This wallpaper would not have been appropriate for a domestic interior; it was probably designed specifically for rooms used exclusively by men, perhaps in a gentlemen's club. It is printed on laminated paper in shades of brown, which suggests that it was intended for rooms where men would be smoking. The brown tones would not be obviously discoloured by tobacco smoke, and the laminated surface meant that the paper was washable, therefore it would not have to be replaced too often.

Physical description

Length of wallpaper with pattern of semi-naked female figures against a background of flowers, printed in shades of brown.

Place of Origin

United States (probably, printed)

Date

late 19th century or early 20th century (printed)

Artist/maker

Unknown (designer)
Unknown (manufacturer)

Materials and Techniques

Machine print on laminated paper

Dimensions

Width: 53.6 cm, Length: 132.5 cm cut unevenly at one end

Descriptive line

Wallpaper with a pattern of semi-naked female figures. Probably American, late 19th or early 20th century.